Mariafe Artacho del Solar and Taliqua Clancy have ended their Paris 2024 campaign in heartbreak, falling just short of a bronze medal against Switzerland.
Giving absolutely everything, the Aussie pair put together an incredible performance in front of a capacity crowd, but couldn’t match the intensity of the Suisse pair and lost in straight sets 2-0 (21-17, 21-15).
“It definitely stings for sure at the moment and probably will for a really long time.” Taliqua said.
“I'm sure this game will be haunting me. But also the positive of that is that it'll definitely keep the fire burning.”
There was not an ounce of energy spared from either team from the first point, the quality of play matching the stunning venue of the Eiffel Tower Stadium, the clear diamond of the Paris 2024 Games.
Mariafe and Taliqua showed no signs of nerves and were quick to counter the skill and intensity of the Suisse duo Tanja Huberli and Nina Brunner, scoring neck and neck throughout the first set.
However the Suisse put the pressure on the Aussies, jumping out to a 14-10 lead. The Suisse dominance continued and they won the first set 21-17.
Struggling to counter the attack, Mariafe and Taliqua had some costly errors early in the second set and the Suisse were quickly out to a17-10 lead.
Ultimately the Aussies couldn't claw back the deficit, and they lost the second set 21-15, ending the match and finishing fourth.
Despite the result, both Mariafe and Taliqua were incredibly grateful and thankful for the opportunity they had had to play in Paris, and most in such an iconic setting with amazing crowds.
“I love the sport, and I still love these big moments,” Taliqua said. “It's the crazy part of what us athletes crave. So as much as I hate this feeling, I know that it's gonna turn into a positive.” Taliqua said.
“It was amazing, honestly, Mariafe said. “I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to play in this iconic beautiful venue.
“In front of that amazing crowd, the energy and the vibe. Every game was phenomenal and it was so fun to play there.
“It was always a dream to play in front of the Eiffel Tower. Paris is one of my favourite cities. It lived up to expectations. It was definitely the best experience.”
Shannon Knaus
